An alleged drug dealer escaped police custody in Merabadi shortly after his arrest, officials reported on Friday. A case has been registered at the Sumbal Police Station following the incident.
According to police, officers raided a street near a café based on information about the suspect’s whereabouts. After apprehending the man, they placed him in a private Cuore car to transport him to the station. However, during the transfer, a group of around 12 individuals, including women, attacked the police team with butcher knives, axes, batons, and pistols. The assailants opened fire, damaged the police vehicle, and managed to free the suspect.
During the confrontation, Head Constable Samiullah sustained a hand injury from a butcher knife. Police patrol teams arrived shortly after, securing the area and shifting the injured officer to a hospital.
This marks the third escape from police custody in less than 10 days, raising serious concerns about law enforcement protocols.
On February 12, a murder suspect escaped from the Banigala Police Station after breaking the lock-up. Six officers, including the SHO and station clerks, were booked for negligence.
On February 16, a drug-peddling suspect fled from Khanna police custody while being transported to jail. The escape occurred during a stop at a photocopy shop near the Koral Police Station.
In response, the Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) issued a written directive to senior officers, stressing that repeated verbal instructions regarding proper detention procedures have been ignored. The memo attributed the escapes to negligence and lack of accountability among officers.
“Due to negligence, suspects are escaping custody frequently. Strict compliance with transfer protocols must be ensured,” the directive stated.
Authorities have pledged to tighten security measures and hold responsible personnel accountable to prevent further incidents.